New Zealand
New Zealand Food Safety has issued a warning to consumers, especially those with chronic liver damage, the elderly and pregnant people to consider extra precautions if eating frozen berries to minimize the risk of Hepatitis A.
They have recently become aware of 3 cases of Hepatitis A, all of whom regularly consume imported frozen berries and are linked through virus genotyping. Also mentioned while there is not sufficient information on a specific brand to initiate a targeted product recall, the evidence from the cases and from international experience, indicates a risk of exposure to Hepatitis A from consuming imported frozen berries.
New Zealand Food Safety is advising people to be aware of the risks and if eating frozen berries to take the following precautions during pregnancy, if they are elderly or with chronic liver damage:
- Briefly boil frozen berries before eating them, or
- Ensure cooking temperatures exceed 85 degrees Celsius for 1 minute.
- Wash your hands before eating and preparing food.
If you are experiencing Hepatitis A symptoms like fever, jaundice, nausea, clay-colored stool, dark urine, malaise, abdominal discomfort, or vomiting, it is important to report it. It can help to detect and resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
Source:
www.mpi.govt.nz